Packaging machine for paper bags

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a packaging machine ( 1 ) for producing a packaging bag ( 20 ), in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, and for closing a filled packaging bag, comprising: a feed device ( 2 ) for feeding in a packaging material ( 22 ); at least one connecting device ( 30 ) for producing the packaging bag by connection of at least two layers of the packaging material, wherein, during the connection, the packaging material is conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration; and at least one closure device ( 40 ) for closing the produced and filled packaging bag ( 20 ).

The invention relates to a packaging machine and a method for producing and closing a packaging bag, a connecting device for producing a packaging bag, a closing device for closing a packaging bag, as well as a closed packaging bag.

For many years, an increasing burden on waste management systems and the environment due to packaging waste that is not or only partially recyclable has been seen. Frequently used packaging made of plastics, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), is usually easy and inexpensive to produce in a variety of forms. Although some plastics are in principle recyclable, there are various material and procedural problems that stand in the way of large-scale reuse of recyclable plastics. In addition, the plastics are often not disposed of properly, so that they are withheld from the recycling cycle. The same applies to composite packaging, such as beverage cartons, which often consist of cardboard coated with aluminum and/or polyethylene.

In order to reduce packaging waste or increase the recyclability of packaging, environmentally friendly and sustainable companies are increasingly making efforts to switch to alternative, more environmentally friendly and/or fully recyclable packaging materials.

Packaging can be made to meet different needs. In particular, the packaging material can be shaped and/or glued in a variety of ways. Commonly used adhesives for gluing packaging materials are, for example, PUR adhesive and EVA hot melt adhesive. However, the use of adhesives for gluing the packaging material is problematic, since this reduces the recyclability of packaging, for example.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a packaging machine and a method for producing and closing a packaging bag, a connecting/joining device for producing a packaging bag, a closing device for closing a packaging bag, as well as a closed packaging bag with increased recyclability.

This object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are subject of the dependent claims.

One aspect of the invention relates to a packaging machine for producing a packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, and for closing a filled packaging bag, comprising: a feed device for feeding a packaging material; at least one connecting device for producing the packaging bag, which has at least one opening, by connecting/joining at least two layers of the packaging material, the packaging material being conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration, upon/during connecting/joining; and at least one closing device for closing the at least one opening of the produced and filled packaging bag.

Producing a packaging bag within the meaning of the present application describes in particular creating a preferably hollow, thin-walled object suitable for accommodating one or more other objects, with a packaging bag produced having at least one opening through which one or more objects can be put into and/or removed from or taken out of the packaging bag. The opening of the packaging bag produced can preferably be closed by means of the closing device after the packaging bag has been filled.

The packaging machine mentioned above has a device that is adapted to connect a packaging material that is conveyed at a substantially constant speed. This has the particular advantage that no intermittent conveying, i.e. alternating acceleration and deceleration or stopping, of the packaging material is required. In this way, in particular, the manufacturing process speed can be accelerated. Alternatively and/or in additional, a force on the packaging material caused by repeated acceleration and deceleration can be avoided, so that material fatigue is prevented, or at least reduced, and thus less resistant packaging materials can be used as well.

In the present application, reference is made in particular to packaging bags that are suitable for accommodating bulk material. Bulk material is understood to mean, for example, a substantially powdery, grainy, granular and/or lumpy mixture, which is preferably present in pourable form. Bulk material within the meaning of this application also includes so-called loose goods, i.e. substantially pourable, definable or quantifiable units, such as hardware or assembly accessories (e.g. screws, nuts, nails, washers, felt gliders and the like), handicraft and sewing materials (e.g. beads, (press) buttons, sequins and the like), stationery (e.g. paper clips and the like), toys (e.g. building blocks, game pieces, dice and the like) and, preferably dry, food (e.g. biscuits, cereals/muesli, coffee, rice, pasta, sugar, salt and the like). Alternatively and/or in addition, packaging bags may be suitable for accommodating a single item, such as a connecting cable, a hand tool or the like.

Preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material mechanically, in particular by embossing, interlocking and/or knurling.

Producing a packaging bag comprises, for example, connecting two or more layers of packaging material. The two or more layers can be arranged at least in some region(s) one on top of the other or opposite one another, for example by folding at least one part or section of a packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, two or more pieces or sheets of packaging material, e.g. one or more paper sheets, can laid one on top of the other in an at least partially overlapping manner.

Mechanical connecting/joining describes in particular a connecting of, for example, two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of material connection and/or an adhesive bond. Mechanical connection preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.

A preferred form of mechanical connecting comprises embossing and/or interlocking and/or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected. Embossing describes in particular a manufacturing process of pressure forming, in which a surface of a workpiece is preferably pressed and/or embossed. Knurling and/or knurl describes a sub-form of embossing, in particular a formation of a circumferential shape deviation of a rotation body. This can be done by milling, pressing and/or embossing, for example.

Advantageously, a shaping tool or embossing tool pressed with pressure on a surface of an object, for example a surface of a packaging material, causes an at least partial or regional deformation of the surface of the object (relief). Particularly in the case of thin or substantially two-dimensional objects, for example a sheet of paper and/or a metal sheet and/or a film, in particular a plastic film, and/or a laminate, a corresponding deformation can be achieved through suitable pressure and design of the shaping tool or embossing tool also on the opposite surface.

In particular, two or more, for example three or four, layers of an object arranged one on top of the other, for example layers of a packaging material, can be embossed or formed together or simultaneously. Thereby, each layer forms a substantially identical or uniform relief, with the reliefs of adjacent or neighboring layers engaging. If the reliefs are formed or embossed in a suitable manner, the two or more layers are substantially connected in a positive/form-fit manner and/or non-positive/friction-fit manner.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a packaging machine for producing a packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, and for closing a filled packaging bag, comprising: a feed device for feeding a packaging material; at least one connecting device for producing a packaging bag, which has at least one opening, by mechanically connecting at least two layers of the packaging material; and at least one closing device for closing the at least one opening of the produced and filled packaging bag.

As described above, the connecting device and/or the closing device is preferably adapted to connect the packaging material by embossing, interlocking and/or knurling.

Advantageously, the packaging material is conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration, upon/during connecting/joining by the at least one connecting device. In particular, as described above, this prevents or reduces wear and/or damage to the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, a substantially continuous, i.e. substantially uninterrupted, conveying of the packaging material enables an increased process speed or an increased throughput.

More preferably, at least one connecting device is displaced relative to the packaging material during connecting. In particular, a connecting device can be displaced relative to the packaging material and/or relative to any substantially stationary reference point, for example the packaging machine as a whole, while connecting two or more layers of packaging material. For example, a connecting device can be moved from one end of the packaging material to the other end thereof in order to connect the packaging material over the appropriate length or distance, or at least part of it. This is particularly advantageous if the connecting takes place in a process step in which at least part of the packaging material remains at least temporarily substantially stationary.

As described with regard to the connecting device, the at least one closing device can be displaced with respect to the packaging material and/or the packaging bag during closing. Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging material is conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration, during closing by the at least one closing device. More preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect at least two, in particular three or four, layers of the packaging material.

Particularly preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material at least partially substantially without a material connection.

A material connection and/or an adhesive bond is characterized in particular by the connection of connection partners, e.g. two or more layers of packaging material, by atomic and/or molecular forces. A material connection is achieved, for example, by soldering, welding, gluing and/or vulcanizing. According to aspects of the present invention, packaging material is connected to produce a packaging bag and/or to close a packaging bag, preferably substantially without a material connection. In particular in the case of packaging material comprising fibrous material, such as paper and/or cardboard, it is advantageous to dispense with adhesive when connecting the packaging material, in order to obtain increased recyclability of the packaging.

More preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material substantially in a positive/form-fit manner and/or non-positive/friction-fit manner.

A positive/form-fit connection is created in particular by an at least partial engagement of at least two connection partners, so that loosening of the connection partners is prevented or at least made more difficult in at least one direction. Examples of a positive/form-fit connection are: tongue and groove connection, zipper, Velcro, toothing and the like. Optionally, a connecting element, such as a rivet, screw and/or cotter pin, can be arranged with a substantially precise fit in corresponding recesses of two connection partners, so that a separation of the connection partners is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult in at least one direction.

A non-positive/friction-fit connection is characterized in particular by a normal force on the surfaces to be connected to one another, so that mutual displacement is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult. An example of a non-positive/friction-fit connection is clamping two objects or weighing one object down.

More preferably, the packaging machine has at least one connecting device that is adapted to create one or more connecting seams/connecting joints substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material, substantially without a material connection; and a second connecting device and/or a closing device, which are adapted to create one or more connecting seams at least partially or completely by means of a material connection or substantially without a material connection, substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material.

This configuration is particularly advantageous for a packaging machine that operates according to a so-called vertical form, fill and seal machine (VFFS—vertical form fill and seal machine), as shown in FIG. 8 , since in particular the materially connected connecting seam arranged orthogonal to the transport direction—to create an open packaging bag (bottom seam)—is exposed to increased stress during the filling process. Alternatively or in addition, the packaging machine has at least one connecting device that is adapted to create one or more connecting seams substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material, substantially without a material connection; and a second connecting device and/or a closing device, which are adapted to create one or more connecting seams at least partially or completely by means of a material connection or substantially without a material connection, substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material or orthogonal to the one or more non-materially connected connecting seams. Optionally, the packaging machine has a connecting device that is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material, substantially without a material connection or at least partially or completely by means of a material connection.

This configuration is particularly advantageous for a packaging machine that operates in accordance with a so-called horizontal form fill and seal machine (HFFS), as shown in FIG. 1 , since in particular the connecting seams arranged parallel to the conveying direction—for producing an open packaging bag (bottom seam)—are subjected to increased stress during the filling process. The connecting seam created by the second connecting device and/or the closing device for closing the opening of the packaging bag (top seam) can optionally be produced at least partially or substantially completely by means of a material connection.

Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam that closes an opening of a packaging container, with a material connection, for example by means of cold glue. Such a connecting device comprises, for example, two elements that are pressed against one another with pressure in order to materially connect two or more layers of packaging material located between the elements. Alternatively or in addition, the at least partial or complete material connection can also be provided by means of hot glue and/or by melting a solid adhesive component and/or by means of multi-component adhesive and/or by means of another conventional adhesion method. Here, preferably means are provided in order to push and/or press and/or heat the layers of the packaging container against one another in order to melt one or more adhesive components, i.e. at least to soften or liquefy them. In particular in the case of a packaging bag having two or more, for example three, connecting seams that are substantially free of material connection, it is advantageous to close an opening of the packaging bag substantially in a materially connected manner.

Particularly preferably, a connecting device and/or a closing device is adapted to connect two or more, in particular three or four, layers of packaging material by means of a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection.

The packaging machine according to one aspect of the invention is particularly suitable for producing and sealing a packaging bag made from a packaging material consisting at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material. Packaging made of paper and/or cardboard is generally highly recyclable because it is made from wood, a renewable raw material.

The packaging material preferably has a fiber length of between about 1 mm and about 5 mm, in particular about 2.5 mm. The thickness of the fibers is preferably between about 0.005 mm and about 0.15 mm, in particular between about 0.01 mm and about 0.08 mm.

Preferably, the packaging material 22 from which a packaging bag 20 is made has a strength or thickness of between about 0.05 mm and about 1 mm, more preferably between about 0.1 mm and about 0.3 mm. More preferably, the packaging material 22 has a grammage between about 10 g/m² and about 150 g/m², more preferably between about 60 g/m² and about 110 g/m².

Particularly preferably, the packaging material 22, which can be a paper, in particular a packaging paper, comprises one or more of the following parameters and/or properties:

-   -   a grammage of about 59 to about 73 g/m² (specifically according         to ISO 536); and(or a thickness of about 68 to about 86 μm         (particularly according to ISO 534); and/or a roughness         according to PPS of about 3.8 to about 7.2 μm (in particular         according to ISO 8791-4); and/or     -   a longitudinal brake resistance of greater than about 35 N/15 mm         and/or a transverse fracture resistance of greater than about 15         N/15 mm (in particular according to ISO 1924-2); and/or     -   a longitudinal elongation at break of greater than about 1.5%         and/or a transverse elongation at break of greater than about         2.0% (in particular according to ISO 1924-2); and/or     -   a Mullen burst pressure greater than about 86 kPa (particularly         according to ISO 2758); and/or     -   a longitudinal tear resistance of greater than about 350 mN         and/or a transverse tear resistance of greater than about 400 mN         (in particular according to ISO 1974); and/or     -   a humidity of about 6.5-7.5% (in particular according to ISO         287); and/or     -   a water absorption capacity or an absorbency of less than about         33 g/m² (in particular according to ISO 353/Cobb 60s).

Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging material preferably comprises one or more of the following properties:

-   -   consisting primarily of non-recycled fibers; and/or     -   consisting primarily of fresh fiber pulp; and/or     -   consisting of less than 30%, preferably less than 10%, by weight         of recycled fibers; and/or     -   comprising fibers from softwood, in particular spruce, pine, fir         and/or Douglas fir; and/or comprising fibers from hardwood, in         particular beech, birch, poplar and/or eucalyptus; and/or     -   comprising fibers from softwood, in particular spruce, pine, fir         and/or Douglas fir, and fibers from hardwood, in particular         beech, birch, poplar and/or eucalyptus, the proportion by weight         of the fibers from softwood preferably being lower than the         proportion by weight of the fibers from hardwood; for example, a         weight proportion of fibers from softwood from 10% to 40% and of         hardwood from 60% to 90%.

Likewise, two or more layers of different packaging materials can be connected to one another form a packaging bag. In particular, a layer with a relatively low grammage, e.g. 60 g/m², and a layer with a relatively high grammage, e.g. 70 g/m², when connected to one another, can constitute a packaging bag with advantageous properties, in particular with regard to weight and/or durability.

Further preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least one shaping or folding device for shaping and/or folding the packaging material. A shaping or folding device is adapted, for example, to shape at least one portion and/or part of a packaging material such that two or more, in particular three or four, layers of the packaging material are superimposed.

Advantageously, the at least one shaping or folding device is adapted to shape the packaging material, in particular to fold it at least once, so that at least two layers of the packaging material overlap at least partially. Particularly preferably, a web of packaging material, for example, is shaped and/or folded or pleated such that a web with packaging material that is doubled at least in some region(s) is produced, which is then fed to a connecting device and/or a closing device. The resulting fold in the packaging material can serve as an edge or finish on one side of the packaging bag.

More preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least one filling device for filling the packaging bag, in particular for filling the packaging bag with bulk material. The filling device is advantageously arranged downstream the at least one connecting device in the packaging machine.

Preferably, the at least one filling device is arranged between the at least one connecting device and the at least one closing device. For example, the packaging bag that has been produced and is open or not yet closed is transported or conveyed to the filling device. The filling device may have one or more of the following devices: an opening device for opening the packaging bag opening; a pouch forming device for forming a pouch or cavity in the packaging bag; an introduction device for introducing or pouring or pushing one or more objects, in particular bulk material, into the packaging bag.

More preferably, the packaging machine comprises one or more devices for accommodating and transporting one or more packaging bags produced, in particular a rotary machine.

Such a device can in particular be configured and arranged in or on the packaging machine in such a manner as to transport or convey one or more packaging bags to a filling device and/or a closing device.

More preferably, the packaging machine comprises at least one separating device for separating part of the packaging material and/or at least one packaging bag, the at least one separating device preferably being arranged: between the feed device and the at least one first connecting device; or between the at least one connecting device and the at least one filling device; or between the at least one filling device and the at least one closing device.

A separating device has, for example, a severing tool for severing or dividing or isolating at least part of a packaging material and/or a packaging bag. Preferably, the severing tool comprises a cutting edge or blade for cutting the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, the separating device can have one or more perforation tools for perforating the packaging material and/or a detaching device for severing or detaching part of the packaging material or a packaging bag, in particular along a perforation line produced in the packaging material.

In particular, the separating device can be adapted to separate and/or cut a packaging material substantially continuously, i.e. substantially without interruption. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a substantially stationary cutting edge and/or a blade arranged on a rotating roller, the cutting edge or the blade being in substantially continuous contact with the packaging material. Alternatively, the separating device can be adapted to separate and/or cut the packaging material intermittently, i.e. in a temporarily suspended manner. This can be achieved, for example, by displaceable blades that are displaced relative to the packaging material and come into contact with it temporarily.

Alternatively and/or in addition, a separating device can be arranged in the packaging machine upstream of the shaping or folding device for separating or isolating part of the packaging material. This is particularly advantageous if two or more, in particular three or four, individual parts or pieces of the packaging material are placed at least partially on top of one another and connected to one another. Alternatively and/or in addition, a separating device can be arranged downstream of the at least one connecting device in order to separate one or more packaging bags that have been produced or to separate or isolate them from the packaging material fed.

Advantageously, the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially orthogonal to or in the transverse direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially parallel or in the longitudinal direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material.

A connecting seam describes in particular a relief produced by reshaping or embossing, which preferably has a substantially elongated shape. A connecting seam also describes an area in which two or more layers of a packaging material are connected, in particular by means of a material connection and/or substantially without a material connection.

A connecting device and/or a closing device is particularly advantageous in the case of a substantially continuous supply of a packaging material from a roll or the like to a connecting device. For example, in order to produce individual packaging bags from a band of packaging material, two or more, in particular three or four, layers of packaging material can be connected, in particular by creating one or more, in particular two, three or four, connecting seams. Connecting seams can, for example, be designed as a transverse seam, i.e. substantially orthogonal to or in the transverse direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material, or as a longitudinal seam, i.e. substantially parallel to or in the longitudinal direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam can be formed obliquely, in particular diagonally, to a conveying direction of the packaging material and/or have non-rectilinear portions.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a connecting device and/or a closing device for connecting at least two layers of a packaging material for producing a packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, comprising: at least one embossing tool with an embossing structure; wherein the connecting device or the closing device is adapted to produce and/or close a packaging bag by connecting, in particular mechanical embossing, interlocking and/or knurling, of at least two layers of the packaging material; and wherein the packaging material consists at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material.

A connecting device and/or a closing device as described above and/or below are particularly suitable for use in a packaging machine according to one aspect of the invention. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting device and/or closing device described above and/or below can be arranged in a packaging machine according to one aspect of the invention and/or be part of the packaging machine. A connecting device within the meaning of this invention is preferably adapted to produce a packaging bag, in particular by creating one or more connecting seams in a packaging material. A closing device is preferably adapted to close a packaging bag that has been produced in particular after it has been filled. In particular, the closing device is preferably adapted to close a last opening of the packaging bag, through which one or more objects were preferably filled into the packaging bag.

Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of a material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.

A preferred form of mechanical connecting includes embossing or interlocking or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected.

The connecting device and/or the closing device can in particular have one or more of the features listed below:

Advantageously, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material while the packaging material is being conveyed substantially continuously, in particular without acceleration.

The connecting device and/or a closing device is/are preferably adapted to connect a packaging material that is conveyed at a substantially constant speed. This has the particular advantage that no intermittent conveying, i.e. alternating acceleration and deceleration or stopping, of the packaging material is required. In this way, for example, the course of the manufacturing process can be accelerated. Alternatively and/or in addition, a force on the packaging material caused by repeated acceleration and deceleration can be avoided, so that material fatigue is prevented, or at least reduced, and thus less resistant packaging materials can be used.

According to a preferred embodiment, the embossing tool comprises at least one rotatable roller with an embossing structure. This is particularly advantageous for creating a connecting seam by a connecting device or a closing device when the packaging material is conveyed at a substantially constant speed in or through the connecting device or closing device. A rotatable roller offers the advantage that it preferably rotates such that the embossing tool has a substantially similar speed and/or direction of movement as the packaging material being conveyed when it comes into contact with the packaging material. Such an at least approximate synchronicity between the embossing tool and the packaging method enables, in particular, a material-friendly creation of a connecting seam, since no, but at least reduced, forces occur on the packaging material in and/or against its conveying direction.

A connecting seam describes in particular a relief produced by reshaping or embossing, which preferably has a substantially elongated shape.

More preferably, the at least one rotatable roller and/or a pair of rollers is mounted in a substantially stationary manner. Alternatively, the embossing tool and/or the at least one rotatable roller and/or the pair of rollers can be displaced relative to the packaging material, in particular each can be displaced in an oscillating manner. It can be advantageous that the at least one rotatable roller be designed to be displaceable in order to bring it into contact with the packaging material or to interrupt contact with the packaging material. This is particularly advantageous in order to achieve at least about synchronicity between the embossing tool and the packaging material.

The connecting device and/or the closing device is particularly preferably adapted to connect the packaging material substantially without a material connection.

A material connection is characterized in particular by the connection of connection partners, e.g. two or more layers of packaging material, by atomic and/or molecular forces. A material connection is achieved, for example, by soldering, welding, gluing and/or vulcanizing. According to aspects of the present invention, packaging material is connected to produce a packaging bag and/or to close a packaging bag, preferably substantially without a material connection. In particular in the case of packaging material comprising fibrous material, such as paper and/or cardboard, it is advantageous to dispense with adhesive when connecting the packaging material, in order to obtain increased recyclability of the packaging.

Preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material substantially in a positive/form-fit manner and/or non-positive/friction-fit manner.

A positive/form-fit connection is created in particular by an at least partial engagement of at least two connection partners, so that loosening of the connection partners is prevented or at least made more difficult. Examples of a positive connection are: tongue and groove connection, zipper, Velcro, toothing and the like. Optionally, a connecting element, such as a rivet, screw and/or cotter pin, can be arranged with a substantially precise fit in corresponding recesses of two connection partners, so that a separation of the connection partners is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult in at least one direction.

A non-positive/friction-fit connection is characterized in particular by a normal force on the surfaces to be connected to one another, so that mutual displacement is prevented or at least made significantly more difficult. An example of a non-positive/friction-fit connection is clamping two objects or weighing one object down.

Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam with a material connection, for example using cold glue, two-component (2K) adhesive, hot-melt adhesive, dispersion adhesive, contact adhesive, polymerization adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive or a similar adhesive, in particular with an adhesive that can be cold bonded, i.e. substantially without heating.

Advantageously, the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially orthogonal to or in the transverse direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material. Alternatively and/or in addition, the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially parallel to or in the longitudinal direction of a conveying direction of the packaging material.

Preferably, the embossing structure of the embossing tool has a plurality of elevations and/or depressions. Here, one or more parameters of the embossed structure, such as distance, thickness, length and/or height or depth of the elevations or depressions, can be modified or selected according to different requirements. In particular, the properties of the embossed structure can be appropriately adapted or matched to different packaging materials and/or the desired resistance of a connecting seam. Some exemplary configurations of particularly advantageous embossed structures are shown in the figures and will be described below.

Preferably, the connecting device and/or the closing device comprises a second embossing tool, more preferably a second rotatable roller with an embossing structure. Preferably, the first roller and the second roller are arranged such that at least part of the packaging material is passed between the first roller and the second roller.

Advantageously, the connecting device and/or the closing device has at least one drive unit, for example a motor, for rotating at least one rotatable roller. This is particularly advantageous for achieving at least approximate synchronicity of the embossing tool and the packaging material being conveyed.

Particularly preferably, the embossed structure of the first roller and the embossed structure of the second roller have substantially complementary or opposite or reciprocal patterns. A particularly advantageous connecting seam can be produced with such a pattern. In particular, a material-damaging stress on the packaging material can be reduced and/or the resistance or durability of the connecting seam can be increased. For example, the embossed structure of the first roller has a depression at a specific point, with the embossed structure of the second roller having an elevation at a corresponding point, in particular an at least temporarily opposite point. The thickness, length and/or height or depth of the depression and elevation are preferably designed to be substantially complementary.

Further preferably, the first roller and the second roller are arranged such that an elevation of the embossed structure of the first roller at least temporarily opposes a depression of the embossed structure of the second roller and/or is at least partially accommodated by it.

Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device and/or the closing device is designed such that one roller of a pair of rollers has a plurality of, for example two, embossing structures in order to create a corresponding number of connecting seams in one process step. In particular, the pair of rollers is designed to create two adjacent and/or side-by-side connecting seams in the packaging material, with the connecting seams being assigned to different packaging bags.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for producing a packaging bag comprising at least one opening, in particular a packaging bag for bulk material, and for closing an opening of a filled packaging bag, comprising the steps of: shaping and/or folding a packaging material, in particular folding or pleating the packaging material; producing the packaging bag by creating at least two connecting seams by respective connection, in particular mechanical embossing, interlocking and/or knurding, of at least two layers of the packaging material; and closing an opening of the produced and filled packaging bag; wherein the packaging material consists at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material.

Preferably, a fed packaging material is folded at least once or shaped such that at least two portions of the packaging material lie opposite and/or abutting one another. Alternatively and/or in addition, two layers of the packaging material can be placed one on top of the other in an at least partially overlapping manner.

Further preferably, to produce the packaging bag, two or more, in particular three or four, connecting seams are created preferably by substantially non-material, in particular positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit mechanical connecting.

Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material substantially without a material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.

A preferred form of mechanical connecting includes embossing or interlocking or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected. Advantageously, at least two connecting seams are arranged substantially orthogonal to one another. Alternatively and/or in addition, at least two connecting seams are arranged substantially parallel to one another.

The method further preferably comprises one or more of the following steps: feeding the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially without a material connection; and/or closing the packaging bag by creating at least one connecting seam arranged in parallel and/or orthogonal to at least one connecting seam for producing the packaging bag; and/or substantially continuous, in particular acceleration-free, conveying of the packaging material while creating at least one connecting seam; and/or filling the packaging bag, in particular filling the packaging bag with bulk material; and/or separating part of the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material.

A connecting seam describes in particular a relief produced, for example, by reshaping or embossing on a surface of an object, for example a packaging material, which preferably has a substantially elongated shape. A connecting seam can also describe an area of at least two connected layers of packaging material by means of a material connection, in particular by means of cold glue, two-component (2K) adhesive, hot-melt adhesive, dispersion adhesive, contact adhesive, polymerization adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive or a similar adhesive, in particular with an adhesive that can be cold-bonded, i.e. substantially without heating.

Exemplary methods for producing and sealing a packaging bag are shown and described in the figures.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a closed packaging bag, in particular a packaging bag filled with bulk material, comprising: at least two connecting seams arranged substantially parallel at least in some region(s), which connect at least two layers of a packaging material of the packaging bag; and at least one connecting seam, at least in some region(s) substantially orthogonal to the at least two connecting seams arranged in parallel; wherein the packaging material consists at least partially of fibrous material, in particular cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, in particular waste paper material.

The packaging bag can in particular be produced and/or closed using the method described. A packaging bag within the meaning of the present application describes in particular a hollow, thin-walled object that is suitable for accommodating one or more other objects.

Preferably, the at least one, in particular two, three or four connecting seams connect the packaging material of the packaging bag substantially without a material connection, in particular without adhesive. More preferably, the at least one, in particular two, three or four, connecting seams connect the packaging material of the packaging bag substantially by means of a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection. Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging bag has at least one, in particular two, connecting seams that connect the packaging material of the packaging bag substantially in a materially connected manner. A material connection can be achieved in particular by means of cold glue, (cold) glue, hot-seal glue and/or similar glues.

The packaging bag advantageously has one or more, for example two, fold lines, preferably orthogonal to at least two connecting seams arranged in parallel. Such a fold line can in particular form an edge or a closing device along one side of the packaging bag.

The packaging bag preferably has two pairs of connecting seams arranged substantially in parallel, the pairs of connecting seams being arranged substantially orthogonal to one another. A packaging bag with corresponding connecting seams is particularly advantageous if the packaging bag is to be designed substantially identically at the edges and/or is to have substantially identical properties, such as tear resistance.

Advantageously, a packaging bag has: at least one first connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially without a material connection: a second connecting seam that connects the packaging material by means of a material connection, the first connecting seam and the second connecting seam being arranged substantially orthogonal to one another; wherein the packaging bag preferably has a third connecting seam that connects the packaging material by means of a material connection, is arranged substantially parallel to the second connecting seam and, more preferably, closes an opening of the packaging bag produced. Such a packaging bag is particularly advantageous in a VFFS process (cf. e.g. FIG. 8 ). The packaging bag optionally has a fourth connecting seam parallel to the first connecting seam, the fourth connecting seam connecting the packaging material substantially without a material connection or substantially with a material connection.

A further advantageous embodiment of a packaging bag has: at least one first connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially without a material connection; a second connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially without a material connection, the first connecting seam and the second connecting seam being arranged substantially parallel to one another; wherein the packaging bag preferably has a third connecting seam that connects the packaging material substantially in a materially connected manner and is arranged substantially orthogonal to the first connecting seam and the second connecting seam. Such a packaging bag is particularly advantageous in an HFFS process (cf. e.g. FIG. 1 ). The packaging bag optionally has a fourth connecting seam parallel to the third connecting seam, the fourth connecting seam connecting the packaging material substantially without a material connection or substantially with a material connection. Packaging bags that can be produced in particular with a packaging machine, a connecting device, a closing device and/or a method according to aspects of the present invention can have a large number of different shapes and properties.

Depending on the filling, intended use and/or other requirements, they can be configured differently. Examples of packaging bags are shown in the figures and will be described below.

In the following, individual embodiments for solving the object will be described by way of example with reference to the figures. Some of the individual embodiments described have features that are not absolutely necessary to implement the claimed subject matter, but which provide desired properties in certain applications. Thus, embodiments not having all the features of the embodiments described below shall also be regarded as disclosed and falling under the technical teaching described.

Furthermore, in order to avoid unnecessary repetition, certain features will only be mentioned in relation to individual embodiments described below. It is pointed out that the individual embodiments should therefore not only be considered individually, but also be viewed as a whole. Based on this combined view, the skilled person will recognize that individual embodiments can also be modified by incorporating individual or multiple features of other embodiments. It is pointed out that a systematic combination of the individual embodiments with individual or multiple features described in relation to other embodiments can be desirable and useful and should therefore be taken into account and also be regarded as covered by the description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary packaging machine for producing, filling and sealing a packaging bag;

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a connecting device for producing a packaging bag;

FIG. 3 shows a further exemplary connecting device;

FIG. 4 shows a section of the exemplary connecting device of FIG. 3 ;

FIG. 5 shows an alternative exemplary embodiment of a connecting device for producing or a closing device for closing a packaging bag;

FIG. 6 shows the connecting device or closing device of FIG. 5 and a packaging material with a connecting seam;

FIG. 7 a shows an exemplary connecting seam in a packaging material;

FIG. 7 b shows an exemplary packaging bag with a plurality of connecting seams;

FIG. 7 c shows the filled packaging bag of FIG. 7 b with a corner cut off;

FIG. 8 shows a further exemplary packaging machine for producing, filling and sealing a packaging bag.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In particular two types of packaging machines are common in the packaging industry: horizontal form fill and seal machine (HFFS) and vertical form fill and seal machine (VFFS). These packaging machines or packaging methods differ in particular with regard to an essential conveying direction of the packaging material or the packaging bag. In an HFFS process, the packaging material and/or packaging bags are conveyed in a substantially horizontal direction. In a VFFS process, the packaging material and/or the packaging bags are conveyed in a substantially vertical direction. The packaging machine, connecting device, closing device and method according to aspects of the present invention are particularly suitable for HFFS and/or VFFS applications. The figures show exemplary embodiments of one or more aspects of the invention, with at least some of the examples shown being suitable for both HFFS and VFFS applications. However, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to the HFFS and VFFS methods mentioned.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary packaging machine 1 in an HFFS design. The packaging machine 1 comprises a roll of packaging material 22 for producing packaging bags 20. The packaging material 22 is fed to the packaging machine 1 by a feed device 2 in a substantially horizontal conveying direction 16. In the embodiment shown, the feed device 2 comprises a pair of driven rollers or cylinders that transport or convey the packaging material 22. As shown in FIG. 1 , the packaging machine 1 also has a shaping or folding device 4 for (re)shaping and/or folding the packaging material 22. In the example shown, the forming or folding device 4 is adapted to fold the packaging material 22 substantially in the middle to form a doubled band (comprising two layers) of the packaging material 22 with a fold or pleat 26 along one side. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the feed device 2 is arranged downstream of the forming or folding device 4. Alternatively and/or in addition, the feed device 2 can be arranged upstream of the shaping or folding device 4. Furthermore, the packaging machine 1 can have one or more additional feed devices 4 and/or shaping or folding devices, which can be arranged at different points in the packaging machine 1.

As an alternative to the example shown, the packaging material 22 can be stored in the form of individual pieces or sheets. In such an example, the feed device 2 and/or the shaping or folding device 4 are preferably configured such that two or more, in particular three or four, pieces or sheets of the packaging material 22 are arranged and/or conveyed in a manner at least partially overlapping or lying one on top of the other.

The packaging machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 also comprises one or more, for example two, connecting devices 30 for connecting two or more, in particular three or four, layers of packaging material 22. Preferably, at least one of the connecting devices 30 is adapted to create, at least one, in particular two or three, connecting seams 24 in or on at least a part of the packaging material 22. Exemplary configurations of a connecting device 30 are shown in FIGS. 2 to 6 and will be described in detail below.

Preferably, the one or more connecting devices 30 are arranged upstream of a shaping or folding device 4 in the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. Alternatively and/or in addition, at least one connecting device 30 can be arranged upstream of a shaping or folding device 4. A connecting device 30 can in particular be adapted to create a connecting seam 24 substantially orthogonal or transversely to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting device can be adapted to create a connecting seam 24 substantially parallel or longitudinal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22.

In the exemplary packaging machine 1 shown in FIG. 1 , the two connecting devices 30 are designed to produce packaging bags 20 by creating a connecting seam 24 orthogonal or perpendicularly to the conveying direction 16 and/or the formed fold 26 of the packaging material 22. In the packaging machine 1 shown, in this way, a plurality of packaging bags 20 are produced on the band of packaging material 22. Each packaging bag 20 is preferably formed by two adjacent or neighboring connecting seams 24 and the portion of the packaging material 22 located between them (cf. also FIG. 2 ). The packaging bags 20 also have an opening on the side opposite the fold 26.

The packaging machine 1 of FIG. 1 comprises one or more, e.g. two, separating devices 6 for separating or severing or isolating one or more packaging bags 20 from the band of packaging material 22. In the example shown, the separating device 6 comprises two severing tools, for example a knife or a blade or cutting edge, which are adapted to cut or sever at least part of the packaging material 22. In the exemplary embodiment of the packaging machine 1 shown, the separating device 6 is adapted to separate a region of the packaging material 22 that forms a packaging bag 20.

According to an alternative embodiment, a packaging machine 1 can have a plurality, e.g. two, separating devices 6, which are preferably not arranged directly adjacent in the packaging machine. For example, a first separating device 6 can separate the packaging material 20 such that the separated portion has two or more connected packaging bags 20. The separated portion can be conveyed to devices for filling and/or sealing and, optionally, then be fed to a second separating device 6, which separates at least one packaging bag 20 from the previously separated portion. A separating device 6 can alternatively and/or in addition be arranged upstream of a shaping or folding device 4.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the packaging machine 1 comprises a rotary machine 10 for accommodating and/or transporting or conveying one or more packaging bags 20 and/or individual portions of the packaging material 22. The rotary machine 10 is preferably adapted to feed one or more packaging bags 20 and/or or separated individual portions of the packaging material 22 substantially continuously or intermittently to one or more stations or devices of the packaging machine 1, in particular a filling device 8 of the packaging machine 1 for filling the packaging bag 20, preferably with bulk material. Advantageously, the filling device 8 has an opening device and/or or pouch forming device 12 for opening the opening of the packaging bag 20 and/or forming the packaging bag 20, in particular by forming a substantially bulbous pouch—in preparation for the filling of the packaging bag 20. One or more, e.g. two, three or four, inlet devices 14 are adapted to fill the packaging bag 20 with one or more objects, in particular with bulk material.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the rotary machine 10 is preferably adapted to transport or convey the packaging bags 20 along a substantially circular path to one or more stations or devices of the packaging machine 1, in particular the filling device 8. Preferably, the packaging bags 20 can temporarily remain in a substantially stationary manner at one or more of the devices.

Moreover, the packaging machine 1 has one or more, in particular 2 or 3, closing devices 40 for closing one or more, e.g. two, packaging bags 20. In the present example, two filled packaging bags 20 are fed to a closing device 40 and closed by it. A closing device 40 is preferably adapted to close the opening of a packaging bag 20, in particular by connecting a packaging material 22 forming the opening. Preferably, the closing device 40 comprises one or more embossing tools 32 for creating at least one connecting seam 24 for closing the opening of the packaging bag 20. The closing device 30 can be designed to be substantially stationary or displaceable relative to the one or more packaging bags. Particularly advantageous is a closing device 40 that can be displaced substantially parallel to or along the side of the packaging bag 20 that comprises the opening. Exemplary embodiments of a closing device are shown in FIGS. 2 to 6 and will be described in detail below. Alternatively and/or in addition, the closing device 40 can be adapted to apply an adhesive to close the opening. Here, it is particularly advantageous to close the opening using cold glue or a similar cold-bonding adhesive.

The packaging bag 20 that has been produced, filled and closed is then fed out of the packaging machine 1. Furthermore, the packaging machine 1 optionally has one or more control devices 18 for controlling or inspecting in particular the packaging material 22 and/or a connecting seam 24. Conveying or feeding of the packaging material 22 and/or the packaging bag 20 can in particular take place substantially intermittently or continuously. In particular, conveying in the individual stations or sections of the packaging machine 1 can vary. As shown in the example in FIG. 1 , the packaging material 22 is preferably transported or conveyed at least up to a separating device 6 in a substantially continuous manner, i.e. at a substantially constant speed, in particular without acceleration.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary connecting device 30, in particular for use in or as part of a packaging machine 1 according to one aspect of the invention. The connecting device 30 is adapted to connect, in particular mechanically, two or more, in particular 3 or 4, layers of a packaging material 22.

Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.

A preferred form of mechanical connecting includes embossing and/or interlocking and/or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected.

The connecting device 30 according to a preferred embodiment comprises at least one embossing tool 32 with one or more, e.g. two, embossing structures 34. The embossing tool 32 is designed as a rotatable roller 36, for example, which has an embossing structure 34 on its outer circumference. The roller 36 is preferably arranged such that its axis of rotation is aligned substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to a conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22 and substantially parallel to a surface of the packaging material 22. The connecting device 30 is preferably designed such that the packaging material 22 can be guided or passed at least partially through it.

In the preferred embodiment of the connecting device 30 shown, the rotatable roller 36 in particular can be rotated such that the embossing structure 34 present on the outer circumference of the roller 36 has substantially, but at least about, the same speed as the conveyed packaging material 22 when it comes into contact therewith. Such an at least approximate synchronicity between the embossed structure 34 and the packaging material 22 can in particular create an improved connecting seam 24 and/or prevent or at least reduce damage to the packaging material 22.

In order to achieve or improve at least approximate synchronicity, a sensor, for example a rotary encoder, can preferably be provided to detect the speed of the packaging material 22 and to control and/or regulate the rotational speed of the roller 36 accordingly.

The connecting device 30 in FIG. 2 is preferably designed to create a connecting seam 24 substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly or transversely to a conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. Alternatively and/or in addition, the roller 36 of the connecting device 30 can have an embossed structure 34 for creating a connecting seam 24 substantially parallel to or along the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22.

The connecting device 30 of FIG. 2 is in particular adapted to produce a packaging bag 20, with a packaging bag 20 in the present example being formed by two substantially parallel connecting seams 24 and a fold or pleat 26, which is formed by shaping or folding the packaging material 22 (not shown). The connecting seams 24 arranged in parallel may have been created by the same embossing structure 34 of an embossing tool 32, by different embossing structures 34 of the same embossing tool 32, or by different embossing structures of different embossing tools 32. An imaginary dividing line 28 divides portions or areas of the packaging material 22 that each have a packaging bag 20. In the further process for separating one or more packaging bags 20, the packaging material 22 is preferably separated or cut along the dividing line 28. Alternatively, a connecting seam 24 can preferably be separated or divided or cut in the middle, so that one part of a connecting seam 24 is part of a packaging bag 20 and the other part of the same connecting seam 24 is part of another packaging bag 20.

Optionally, the embossing tool 32 can be designed or arranged such that at least part of the packaging material 22 passes through the connecting device 30 in a substantially unchanged form, in particular without being connected or having a connecting seam 24. In the example of FIG. 2 , the packaging material 22 is not connected on a side opposite the fold or pleat 26.

In further configurations, at least part of the connecting device 30 can alternatively and/or in addition be displaceable with respect to the packaging material 22. For example, the embossing tool 32 can be oscillatingly displaced in order to be temporarily brought into contact with the packaging material 22. Such a configuration enables improved synchronicity between the embossing structure 34 and the conveyed packaging material 22.

It should be noted that at least some of the described features of the connecting device 30 shown can also be comprised by a closing device 40 for closing a packaging bag 20.

FIGS. 3 and 4 show an exemplary preferred embodiment of a connecting device 30 for connecting at least two layers of packaging material, in particular without a material connection, the connecting device being suitable in particular for use in a packaging machine 1 according to an aspect of the invention. The connecting device 30 shown comprises two embossing tools 32 that are designed as rotatable rollers 36. Each of the rollers 36 preferably has an embossed structure 34 arranged substantially parallel to the respective axis of rotation on the outer circumference of the roller 36. In this example, the axes of rotation of the rollers 36 are oriented substantially in parallel. Alternatively, the axes of rotation can have different orientations.

The rollers 36 of the connecting device 30 are in particular arranged or positioned such that a band and/or a sheet of packaging material 22 can be guided or passed through between the rollers 36. Preferably, the length of the rollers 36 is greater than the width of the packaging material 22. In alternative embodiments, only a portion of the width of the packaging material 22 may pass between the rollers 36. In the example shown, the packaging material is doubled, i.e. it was folded, so that the band of packaging material 22 is at least partially formed in two layers. The band of packaging material 22 has a fold or pleat 26.

Preferably, the connecting device 30 also comprises at least one drive unit 38, in particular a motor, for driving or rotating at least one roller 36. The example shown advantageously has a transmission that connects the motor 38 to the two rollers 36 and makes them synchronous or drives them similarly. This is particularly advantageous since in this way a deviation in the rotation of the rollers 36 can be prevented, or at least reduced.

More preferably, the connecting device 30 is adapted to press the two rollers 36, which are substantially stationary during operation, against one another. For example, by introducing a force onto one roller 36 in the direction of the other roller 36, a pressure can be formed. A packaging material passed between the rollers is exposed to this pressure at least in some region(s) and/or temporarily.

When a connecting seam is created, a pressure of between about 10 bar and about 200 bar, more preferably between about 40 bar and 100 bar, is preferably applied. A contact pressure of between about 10 kN and about 50 kN, more preferably between about 17.5 kN and about 32 kN, is preferably generated.

The connecting device 30 of the illustrated embodiment is adapted to connect a packaging material 22 that is transported in particular substantially without acceleration or at a constant speed. In this embodiment, it is particularly advantageous to rotate the rollers 36 such that the embossed structure 34 and the packaging material 22 have a substantially, but at least almost, identical speed when they touch or come into contact with one another. In this way, tearing and/or damage to the packaging material 22 can advantageously be prevented, or at least reduced.

As shown in FIG. 4 , the rollers 36 have an embossed structure 34 in the longitudinal direction. This enables creating a connecting seam 24 that is aligned substantially transversely or perpendicularly or orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. Alternatively and/or in addition, at least one of the rollers 36 may have an embossed structure 34 in any orientation, in particular in the circumferential direction of the roller 36. Such an embossed structure 34 is particularly suitable for producing a connecting seam 24 substantially parallel to or in the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22.

Advantageously, the embossing structures 34 of the two rollers 36 have substantially complementary or opposite or reciprocal patterns. For example, the embossed structure 34 of one roller 36 consists of a pattern with the sequence: depression, elevation, depression, elevation, depression. Preferably, the embossing structure 34 of the other roller 36 consists of a complementary pattern with the sequence: elevation, depression, elevation, depression, elevation. More preferably, the two rollers 36 are arranged and aligned such that, when the rollers 36 or the embossed structures 36 are opposite or come into contact, the position of a depression in one embossed structure 34 substantially corresponds to the position of an elevation in the other embossed structure 34 and vice versa. In other words, the embossed structures 34 of the rollers are preferably designed such that they engage at least temporarily—similar to coupled gears. In this way, an advantageous connecting seam 24 that is particularly gentle on the material and/or a connecting seam 24 with increased durability or strength can be created in a connection material 22.

In the present exemplary embodiment, the connecting device is arranged in a substantially stationary manner. In an alternative embodiment, the connecting device 30 can be displaceable, in particular in relation to the packaging material 22 and, preferably, parallel to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22.

One or more rollers of an exemplary connecting device as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 advantageously have a length of about 100 mm to about 500 mm, preferably from about 350 mm to about 400 mm, and a diameter of about 100 mm to about 250 mm. preferably from about 140 mm to about 160 mm.

In order to create connecting seams 24 as shown in FIG. 2 , the rollers 36 can have a plurality of embossed structures 34, the embossed structures 34 being arranged unevenly, for example not symmetrically, on the roller surface. In this way, the distances between the connecting seams 24 created by the same connecting device 30 on the packaging material 20 can vary according to the arrangement of the embossing structures 34, with the conveying speed and/or rotational speed of the rollers 36 remaining the same. This advantageous embodiment saves in particular a second connecting device 30 and/or another pair of rollers. Alternatively, a connecting seam 24 can be divided by a separating device 6, preferably about in the middle and in its longitudinal direction, so that one part of a connecting seam 24 connects the packaging material 20 along a side of a first packaging bag 20 and another part of the connecting seam 24 connects the packaging material 20 along a side of another packaging bag 20.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show an exemplary embodiment of a connecting device 30 and/or a closing device 40. The device shown is particularly suitable for creating both a connecting seam 24 for producing a packaging bag 20 and a connecting seam 24 for closing a packaging bag 20, in particular in a packaging machine 1 according to an aspect of the present invention.

The connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40 preferably has two embossing tools 32, in particular in the form of two rollers 36. The rollers 36 each have an embossing structure 34, preferably in a region close to one end of the roller in the axial direction. The embossing structure 34 is provided along at least part of the circumference of the roller. The embossed structure is preferably provided across the entire circumference of the roller.

The connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40 shown is adapted in particular to create a connecting seam 24 in a region of a packaging material 22 near the edge.

To create a connecting seam 24, the connecting device 30 or closing device 40 can be displaced, for example, along an edge or a rim of a substantially stationary packaging material 22. Such a configuration is particularly advantageous for closing a filled packaging bag 20, since a corresponding displacement of the closing device 40 can be implemented in a simple manner when the packaging bag 20 is substantially stationary. With such an embodiment, coordinated rotation of the rollers 36 is particularly advantageous. The rollers 36 are preferably driven or rotated such that the speed of the region of the embossing structure 34 that is in contact with the packaging material 22 has a substantially identical speed as the displacement of the connecting device 30 or closing device 40, but in substantially the opposite direction, i.e. opposite to the displacement direction of the connecting device 30 or closing device 40. In this way, an advantageous connecting seam 24 that is particularly gentle on the material and/or a connecting seam 24 with increased durability or strength can be produced in a connection material 22.

As an alternative to this, at least a portion of a packaging material 22 and/or a preferably filled packaging bag 20 can be displaced relative to the connecting device 30 or closing device 40, as shown in FIG. 6 , for example. This is particularly advantageous when a packaging bag 20 is produced from an intermittently and/or continuously fed packaging material 22.

Alternatively, the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 can comprise a roller 36 with an embossed structure 34 and an adjacent plate, with the packaging material 22 being passed between the roller and the plate. As an alternative to this, the connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40 can be moved or driven over the packaging material 22.

Alternatively and/or in addition, the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 is adapted to connect three layers of a packaging material 22, with the third layer preferably being formed by shaping, in particular folding and/or bending, the first or the second layer of the packaging material.

Similar to what is described in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the two rollers 36 have embossing structures 34 with preferably complementary or engaging or toothed patterns in order to produce an improved connecting seam 24.

Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting device 30 and/or closing device 40, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , can be adapted or arranged in such a way as to create a connecting seam 24 in a lower region of the fed packaging material 20—substantially without a material connection or at least partially by material connection. Such a bottom seam is particularly advantageous in an HFFS process in which the packaging bag 20 does not have a fold of the packaging material 20 at the lower end.

FIGS. 7 a, 7 b and 7 c show exemplary connecting seams 24 and exemplary packaging bags 20 according to an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 7 a shows a packaging material 22 or a portion of a packaging bag 20 with a connecting seam 24 having a relief comprising adjacent elevations and depressions.

This preferred configuration of a connecting seam 24 has elevations and depressions arranged substantially in parallel, the elevations and depressions being aligned substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to a direction in which the connecting seam 24 extends (from left to right). The connecting seam 24 is preferably created without a material connection by mechanical connecting, in particular embossing, interlocking and/or knurling, for example with a connecting device 30 and/or a closing device 40 according to one aspect of the invention.

Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam 24 can be formed substantially uniformly, i.e. in a continuously repeating pattern, and/or varying. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam 24 can have a relief with elevations and/or depressions, which are at least partially aligned in the longitudinal direction or parallel to a substantial extension direction of the connecting seam 24. Alternatively and/or in addition, a connecting seam can comprise elevations and/or depressions of any shape, in particular substantially circular, wavy, jagged and/or curved.

Particularly preferably, the elevations and/or depressions are arranged substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to an essential alignment or orientation of fibers of the packaging material. In particular, an angle between the elevations and/or depressions and a substantial orientation of the fibers is preferably greater than about 20°, more preferably greater than about 45°. In this way, an advantageous durability or resistance of a connecting seam 24 can be achieved since fibers of two or more elevations and/or depressions are connected.

FIG. 7 b shows a portion of a substantially rectangular packaging bag 20 made of packaging material 22 according to an exemplary embodiment. The illustration shows three connecting seams 24 having a substantially identical relief. Two of the connecting seams 24 are substantially parallel and substantially orthogonal or perpendicular to the third connecting seam 24.

The connecting seams 24 are preferably produced without a material connection by mechanical connecting, in particular embossing, interlocking and/or knurling, for example with a connecting device 30 and/or a closing device 40 according to one aspect of the invention.

In the exemplary packaging bag 20 shown, it is particularly advantageous for the fibers of the packaging material 22 to be aligned and/or oriented neither in parallel nor perpendicularly, preferably at an angle of approximately 45°, to the connecting seams 24, since thereby a substantially uniform stability of the connecting seams 24 running in different directions can be achieved.

In alternative embodiments of a packaging bag 20, one or more packaging seams 24 can be configured differently, at least in part, or have different reliefs. Alternatively and/or in addition, one or more connecting seams 24 can be arranged at any angle, e.g. 45°. Alternatively and/or in addition, a packaging bag 24 can have a substantially round or rounded contour at least in some region(s), with the packaging bag 20 preferably having a correspondingly designed or extending connecting seam 24.

According to a preferred embodiment, the third connecting seam (running from right to left) in the example shown alternatively and/or in addition has elevations and/or depressions aligned in accordance with the elevations and/or depressions of the connecting seams arranged in parallel. This is particularly advantageous if the fibers of the packaging material 22 are oriented or run substantially from top to bottom, i.e. substantially parallel to the connecting seams 24 arranged in parallel.

A packaging bag 20 can alternatively and/or in addition have one or more connecting seams 24 created by means of a material connection. In particular, a packaging bag 20 can have a first connecting seam 24 that is substantially free of a material connection, with this first connecting seam 24 connecting at least two superimposed and/or overlapping layers of a packaging material 22 and, preferably, corresponding to a side fold of a tubular bag. Such a packaging bag 20 advantageously has a second connecting seam 24 and a third connecting seam 24 arranged substantially parallel to one another and substantially orthogonal to the first connecting seam 24 and, more preferably, at opposite ends of a closed packaging bag 20. Preferably, the second connecting seam 24 and the third connecting seam 24 are substantially free of a material connection. Alternatively, at least one of the second and third connecting seams 24 can be created at least in some region(s) by means of a material connection or can connect at least two layers of the connection material 22 by means of a material connection. Such a packaging bag 20 is particularly advantageous in a VFFS process, as shown in FIG. 8 . In an HFFS method, as shown in FIG. 1 , a packaging bag 20 with two non-materially connected connecting seams 24, which are arranged orthogonal to a conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 20 and preferably define two sides of the packaging bag 20, is particularly advantageous. Moreover, such a packaging bag 20 has one, preferably two, materially connected connecting seams 24 that form a top seam and/or a bottom seam of the packaging bag 20. Here, the top seam corresponds to the connecting seam 24 that closes a last opening of the packaging bag 20 through which it was filled. A bottom seam corresponds in particular to a connecting seam 24 in a lower region of the packaging bag 20 and preferably defines a lower end of the cavity of the packaging bag 20. In particular, such a bottom seam is subjected to increased stress during the filling process of the packaging bag 20, so that it should advantageously have increased strength, for example by means of a connecting seam 24 with a material connection and, optionally, a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection.

FIG. 7 c shows a filled packaging bag 20 with an substantially square shape, with one corner having been cut off. The packaging bag 20 shown contains hardware, in particular at least one nut and at least one washer. A packaging bag 20 is designed to alternatively and/or in addition contain one or more other objects, in particular bulk material. In particular, the packaging bag 20 can have three connecting seams 24 without a material connection and one connecting seam 24 created with a material connection. The connecting seam 24 created with a material connection preferably closes a last opening of the packaging bag 20 through which the latter was filled.

A packaging machine 1 according to one aspect of the invention is particularly suitable or adapted to produce and/or to close a packaging bag 20 as shown in FIG. 7 b or 7 c.

Preferably, the packaging material 22 from which a packaging bag 20 is made has a thickness of between about 0.05 mm and about 1 mm, more preferably between about 0.1 mm and about 0.3 mm. More preferably, the packaging material 22 has a grammage between about 10 g/m² and about 150 g/m², more preferably between about 60 g/m² and about 110 g/m².

In particular, packaging material 22 with different strength or thickness and/or with a different grammage can form a packaging bag 20.

An exemplary packaging material 22 suitable for use in a packaging machine 1, for use in a connecting device 30, for a method for producing a packaging bag 20 and/or for a packaging bag 20 according to aspects of the invention preferably has one or more of the following parameters and/or properties:

-   -   a grammage of from about 59 to about 73 g/m² (specifically         according to ISO 536); and/or     -   a thickness of about 68 to about 86 μm (particularly according         to ISO 534); and/or     -   a roughness according to PPS of about 3.8 to about 7.2 μm (in         particular according to ISO 8791-4); and/or     -   a longitudinal brake resistance of greater than about 35 N/15 mm         and/or a transverse break resistance of greater than about 15         N/15 mm (in particular according to ISO 1924-2); and/or     -   a longitudinal elongation at break of greater than about 1.5%         and/or a transverse elongation at break of greater than about         2.0% (in particular according to ISO 1924-2); and/or     -   a Mullen burst pressure greater than about 86 kPa (particularly         according to ISO 2758); and/or     -   a longitudinal tear resistance of greater than about 350 mN         and/or a transverse tear resistance of greater than about 400 mN         (in particular according to ISO 1974); and/or     -   a humidity of about 6.5-7.5% (in particular according to ISO         287); and/or     -   a water absorption capacity or an absorbency of less than about         33 g/m² (in particular according to ISO 353/Cobb 60s).

A first, exemplary and suitable packaging material 22 substantially comprises uncoated paper and:

-   -   a grammage of from about 59 to about 65 g/m²; and/or     -   a thickness of about 68 to about 75 μm; and/or     -   a roughness according to PPS of from about 3.8 to about 4.2 μm;         and/or     -   a longitudinal brake resistance of greater than about 35 N/15 mm         and/or a transverse brake resistance of greater than about 15         N/15 mm (in particular according to ISO 1924-2); and/or     -   a longitudinal elongation at break greater than about 1.5%         and/or a transverse elongation at break greater than about 2.0%;         and/or     -   a Mullen burst pressure of greater than about 86 kPa; and/or     -   a longitudinal tear resistance of greater than about 380 mN         and/or a transverse tear resistance of greater than about 430         mN; and/or     -   a moisture of about 6.8-7.2%; and/or     -   a water absorption capacity or absorbency of less than about 33         g/m².

A second, exemplary and also suitable packaging material 22 substantially comprises uncoated paper and:

-   -   a grammage of from about 67 to about 73 g/m²; and/or     -   a thickness of from about 76 to about 86 μm; and/or     -   a roughness according to PPS of from about 3.8 to about 7.2 μm;         and/or     -   a longitudinal brake resistance of greater than about 38 N/15 mm         and/or a transverse brake resistance of greater than about 16         N/15 mm; and/or     -   a longitudinal elongation at break greater than about 1.8%         and/or a transverse elongation at break greater than about 2.1%;         and/or     -   a Mullen burst pressure of greater than about 95 kPa; and/or     -   a longitudinal tear resistance of greater than about 400 mN         and/or a transverse tear resistance of greater than about 450         mN; and/or     -   a moisture of about 6.5-7.5%; and/or     -   a water absorption capacity or absorbency of less than about 33         g/m².

Alternatively and/or in addition, the packaging material can preferably include one or more of the following properties:

-   -   consisting primarily of non-recycled fibers; and/or     -   consisting primarily of fresh fiber pulp; and/or     -   consisting of less than 30%, preferably less than 10%, by weight         of recycled fibers; and/or     -   comprising fibers from softwood, in particular spruce, pine, fir         and/or Douglas fir; and/or     -   comprising fibers from hardwood, in particular beech, birch,         poplar and/or eucalyptus; and/or     -   comprising fibers from softwood, in particular spruce, pine, fir         and/or Douglas fir, and fibers from hardwood, in particular         beech, birch, poplar and/or eucalyptus, the proportion by weight         of the fibers from softwood preferably being lower than the         proportion by weight of the fibers from hardwood; for example, a         weight proportion of fibers from softwood from 10% to 40% and of         hardwood from 60% to 90%.

Said parameters and/or properties of a packaging material 22 are only listed as examples and describe packaging materials 22 that are particularly suitable for the invention, in particular with regard to their tear strength and/or durability and/or processability and/or rigidity. However, packaging materials 22 with at least partially different parameters and/or properties are also suitable for the invention. In particular, the packaging material 22 can be selected accordingly for example depending on the requirements of the packaging bag 20 and/or the production method and/or the connecting device 30 and/or the packaging machine 1.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary packaging machine 1 in a VFFS design, which is adapted in particular to produce so-called tubular bag packaging. The packaging machine 1 shown comprises a feed device 2 adapted to feed in a packaging material 22, in particular from a roll. Preferably, the packaging material 22 is fed intermittently. Alternatively, the packaging material 22 can be fed substantially continuously. One or more feeding devices, for example comprising friction belts, are optionally provided for conveying the packaging material 22. The packaging machine 1 has a substantially funnel-shaped filling device 8. The packaging material 22 is formed by a folding device 4 of the packaging machine 1. In the present example, the shaping or folding device 4 comprises a tube arranged following the filling device 8. The packaging material 22 is preferably formed or guided around the tube such that at least part of the edges of the packaging material 22 face one another and/or abut one another or overlap one another. The packaging material 22 shaped in this way is conveyed or transported in the direction of at least one connecting device 30. The at least one connecting device 30 is preferably adapted and arranged so as to connect the overlapping region of the packaging material 22.

Mechanical connecting describes in particular connecting for example two layers of a packaging material that is substantially free of material connection. Mechanical connecting preferably takes place by forming a positive/form-fit and/or non-positive/friction-fit connection by exerting pressure on one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected and/or at least partial reshaping of one or more, e.g. two, objects to be connected.

A preferred form of mechanical connecting comprises embossing or interlocking or knurling of at least one of the connection partners, i.e. the objects to be connected.

Preferably, the at least one connecting device 30 is configured in accordance with the connecting devices 30 or locking devices 40 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 . In particular, the connecting device 30 preferably has at least one, in particular two, rotatable rollers 36 each having an embossed structure 34. The connecting device 30 is preferably adapted to create a connecting seam 24 in the longitudinal direction or parallel to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material, with the connecting seam 24 corresponding to a side fold of the tubular bag packaging.

The packaging material 22 is preferably conveyed further to a device that preferably comprises a connecting device 30, a closing device 40, and a separating device 6. In this way, a first open packaging bag or one having at least one opening can be produced and a second, already filled packaging bag can be closed and isolated in a combined process step. Alternatively, the device comprises only one or two of connecting device 30, closing device 40 and/or separating device 6. One or more of connecting device 30, closing device 40 and/or separating device 6 can also be arranged at a distance from one another. In particular, a separating device 6 can be arranged separately, preferably at an end of the VFFS machine that is remote in the conveying direction 16.

In particular, a connecting device 30 is adapted to create a connecting seam 24 substantially in the transverse direction or orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22 in order to produce a first packaging bag 20. In addition, a second, already filled packaging bag 20 is preferably closed by creating a connecting seam substantially in the transverse direction or orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22 by a closing device 40. Furthermore, the packaging material 22 is preferably closed by a separating device 6 along a dividing line 28, substantially in the transverse direction or orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22, so that the second packaging bag 20 is separated or severed from the packaging material 22.

Preferably, the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 is designed in accordance with the connecting device 30 or closing device 40 shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 or in FIGS. 5 and 6 . In particular, the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 is adapted for mechanical connecting, including embossing or interlocking or knurling.

As an alternative to the configuration described above, only one connecting device 30 or one closing device 40 can be provided in order to create a single connecting seam 24 transversely to the conveying direction 16. In this case, the separating line 28 is preferably positioned substantially in the middle of the connecting seam 24 created. This preferred embodiment allows a reduced outlay on components and control.

In the example of the packaging machine 1 shown, at least part of the connecting device 30, the closing device 40 and/or the separating device 6 is designed to be displaceable in order to enable the packaging bag 20 to be filled. In particular, the connecting device 30, the closing device 40 and/or the separating device 6 or a respectively displaceable part thereof is displaced substantially orthogonal or perpendicularly to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22. In this way, a connection is created between the filling device 8 and the packaging bag 20 produced, so that the packaging bag 20 can be filled.

A further configuration comprises a connecting device 30 adapted to create at least one connecting seam 24 parallel to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22, substantially without a material connection, and a further connecting device 30 and/or a closing device 40 adapted to create at least one connecting seam 24 orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 of the packaging material 22, preferably at least in some region(s), by means of a material connection, in particular by means of cold glue, two-component (2K) adhesive, hot-melt adhesive, dispersion adhesive, contact adhesive, polymerization adhesive, pressure-sensitive adhesive or a similar adhesive, in particular with an adhesive that can be cold-bonded, i.e. substantially without heating.

Alternatively and/or in addition, a layer of glue can be applied to the packaging material 22 in the region of a connecting seam 24 to be produced, in particular a head seam, with the layer of glue preferably comprising cold glue and/or a glue that can be processed at room temperature. The glue layer can dry substantially immediately. As a result, the layers of packaging material are preferably not yet connected to one another. A connecting, in particular a gluing of the layers of the packaging material of the head seam, takes place in that the connecting seam 24 is created by heating the glue and/or hot-sealing the glue, in particular at a temperature of about 100-140° C. For example, the glue layer can be applied to one layer of packaging material, so that the glue layer is arranged between two opposite layers of packaging material. It is also possible for a layer of glue to be applied to each layer of packaging material. In the case of a glue layer, the two layers of packaging material are connected by heating the glue layer. If there are two layers of glue, the layers of glue are bonded to each other and to the two layers of packaging material by heating. Heating can take place by means of one or two or more than two heating jaws. A pair of heating jaws can be used. A pair of jaws can be used, one jaw being heated and one jaw being unheated.

For applying one or more of the aforementioned substances, a device can be provided, in particular positioned upstream of a shaping or folding device 4. Preferably, a first connecting seam 24 arranged orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 for producing the packaging bag 20 and a second connecting seam 24 arranged orthogonal to the conveying direction 16 for closing the packaging bag 20 are created, with these connecting seams 24 preferably being arranged at an opposite end of a packaging bag 20 in each case.

In a further embodiment, a connecting seam 24 arranged orthogonal to the conveying direction can be produced by the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 40 and severed by a separating device 6, preferably about in the middle, so that a part of the connecting seam 24 forms a top seam of a packaging bag 20 and another part of the connecting seam 24 forms a bottom seam of another packaging bag 20. A separating device 6 can be positioned in the immediate vicinity of the connecting device 30 and/or the closing device 24 or at a distance in the conveying direction 16.

REFERENCE NUMERAL LIST

-   -   1 packaging machine     -   2 feed device     -   4 forming or folding device     -   6 separating device     -   8 filling device     -   10 rotary machine     -   12 opening device/pouch forming device     -   14 inlet device     -   16 conveying direction     -   18 control device     -   20 packaging bag     -   22 packaging material     -   24 connecting seam     -   26 fold/pleat     -   28 dividing line     -   30 connecting device     -   32 embossing tool     -   34 embossing structure     -   36 roller     -   38 drive unit     -   40 closing device 

1. A packaging machine for producing a packaging bag for bulk material and for closing a filled packaging bag, comprising: a feed device for feeding a packaging material; at least one connecting device for producing the packaging bag by connecting at least two layers of the packaging material, the packaging material being conveyed substantially continuously, without acceleration, upon/during connecting; and at least one closing device for closing the produced and filled packaging bag.
 2. The packaging machine according to claim 1, wherein the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material mechanically by embossing, interlocking& and/or knurling.
 3. A packaging machine for producing a packaging bag for bulk material and for closing a filled packaging bag, comprising: a feed device for feeding a packaging material; at least one connecting device for producing a packaging bag by mechanically connecting at least two layers of the packaging material; and at least one closing device for closing the produced and filled packaging bag.
 4. The packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material by embossing, interlocking and/or knurling; and/or wherein the packaging material is conveyed substantially continuously, without acceleration, upon/during connecting by the at least one connecting device.
 5. The packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the at least one connecting device is displaced relative to the packaging material upon/during connecting; and/or wherein the packaging material is conveyed substantially continuously, without acceleration, upon/during being closed by the at least one closing device; and/or wherein the at least one closing device is displaced in relation to the packaging material and/or the packaging bag during closing.
 6. The packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material at least partially substantially without a material connection; and/or wherein the connecting device and/or the closing device is adapted to connect the packaging material substantially in a positive/form-fit manner and/or non-positive/friction-fit manner.
 7. The packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the connecting device is adapted to create one or more connecting seams substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material and substantially without a material connection; and wherein at least one of the connecting device and the closing device are adapted to create one or more connecting seams with a material connection substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material.
 8. The packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the packaging material at least partially comprises fibrous material comprising at least one of cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, and waste paper material.
 9. The packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material; and/or wherein the at least one connecting device and/or the at least one closing device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material.
 10. A connecting device for connecting at least two layers of a packaging material for producing a packaging bag for bulk material, comprising: at least one embossing tool with an embossing structure; wherein the connecting device is adapted to produce and/or close a packaging bag by connecting through mechanical embossing, interlocking, and/or knurling, at least two layers of the packaging material, while the packaging material is being conveyed substantially continuously and without acceleration; and wherein the packaging material comprises fibrous material comprising at least one of cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, and waste paper material.
 11. The connecting device according to claim 10, wherein the embossing tool comprises at least one rotatable roller with an embossing structure.
 12. The connecting device according to claim 10, wherein the connecting device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material; and/or wherein the connecting device is adapted to create a connecting seam substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material.
 13. A method for producing a packaging bag for bulk material and for closing a filled packaging bag, the method comprising: shaping and/or folding a packaging material by folding and/or pleating the packaging material; producing the packaging bag by creating at least two connecting seams by respective connection through mechanical embossing, interlocking, and/or knurling at least two layers of the packaging material; and substantially continuously, and without acceleration, conveying the packaging material while producing at least one connecting seam; and/or closing the produced and filled packaging bag; wherein the packaging material comprises fibrous material comprising at least one of cellulose, wood pulp and/or paper, and waste paper material.
 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein at least two connecting seams are arranged substantially orthogonal to one another, and/or at least two connecting seams are arranged substantially parallel to one another.
 15. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: feeding the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially without a material connection; and/or closing the packaging bag by creating at least one connecting seam arranged parallel and/or orthogonal to at least one connecting seam for producing the packaging bag; and/or filling the packaging bag with bulk material; and/or separating part of the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially orthogonal to a conveying direction of the packaging material; and/or creating at least one connecting seam substantially parallel to a conveying direction of the packaging material.
 16. A closed packaging bag filled with bulk material, comprising: at least two connecting seams arranged substantially parallel, which connect at least two layers of a packaging material of the packaging bag substantially without a material connection; and at least one connecting seam, substantially orthogonal to the at least two connecting seams arranged in parallel which connects the packaging material with a material connection; wherein the packaging material comprises fibrous material that comprises at least one of cellulose, wood pulp, paper, and/or waste paper material.
 17. The closed packaging bag according to claim 16, wherein at least one connecting seam connects the packaging material of the packaging bag substantially without a material connection.
 18. The closed packaging bag according to claim 16, wherein the packaging bag has a fold line orthogonal to the at least two parallel connecting seams; and/or wherein the packaging bag has two pairs of substantially parallel connecting seams, the pairs of substantially parallel connecting seams being arranged substantially orthogonal to one another. 